Donor Stories

A “cheerful giver,” Holly Barrios-Gayman believes education is the foundation to strive for the American dream. She created a scholarship to support deserving students in need from Lake County.

David G. Bentley Remembered by His Legacy in Education

One man’s inspirational pursuit of education and a life well lived results in an extraordinary gift to College of Lake County.

Empowering the Next Generation

Through his kindness and generosity, Dennis Kessler is giving CLC students the opportunity to work on campus and build the skills they need to enter the workforce.

Lifelong Connection Becomes Lasting Legacy

Bill Griffin’s tie to CLC began in 1973 and has only grown stronger—first as a student, then adjunct professor, board of trustee member and now, legacy donor. See why he’s created a gift in his estate to support CLC’s student athletes.

Compassionate Donor's Scholarship Spares Student From Leaving School

David Galla, president of R. J. Galla Company, Inc., has served as a member of the CLC Foundation Board for more than 10 years. He is the brains and the brawn behind our annual Golf Scholarship Classic and has given generously to student scholarships for more than 20 years. Whenever he is asked about why he makes foundation giving and service a priority, he remarks simply, "It's all about the students."

Honoring Their Son and Supporting CLC Students

Paul and Marla Diamond created a scholarship to honor their son, Michael, whose life was unexpectedly cut short. The scholarship benefits future CLC students who share Michael’s heart for service and might prepare for a career in teaching and service.

Honoring a Heritage of Service

For Charles Schaller and Leslie Brueggemann, giving to the College of Lake County Foundation is a matter of fidelity to family legacy.

Improving Lives in Lake County’s Latinx Community

Holly Kerr has been actively engaged with the CLC Foundation as a donor, friend and board member since the mid-1990s. Her leadership and generosity has helped hundreds of CLC students pursue an education and develop the leadership skills necessary to thrive in today's marketplace.

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